In Japanese, shiatsu means “finger pressure.” This massage technique, based on applying pressure with the fingers without using any equipment, is quite popular today. Performed using the thumbs, fingers, and palms, shiatsu massage helps create a sense of relaxation in both the body and the mind with its beneficial effects. So, how is shiatsu massage performed in detail, and what does it do? We have covered everything you need to know about shiatsu massage.
What Is Shiatsu Massage?
Shiatsu massage aims to balance the body’s energy flow, reduce stress and tension, improve circulation, and support overall well-being. Although the origins of shiatsu are traced back to Japanese therapists in the early 20th century, its foundations go much further back to ancient Chinese practices such as acupuncture and manual therapy.
Today, shiatsu is recognized among modern massage therapies for both its energy-based approach rooted in Eastern philosophy and its physically relaxing effects. It is also accepted by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a complementary therapy and an effective alternative method. The main purpose of this supportive treatment is to eliminate energy imbalances in both the body and the mind and to promote deep relaxation.
What Are Shiatsu Massage Points?
Shiatsu points refer to the pressure points used during the massage. Shiatsu massage is performed using only the fingers, and through a therapeutic touch, it helps the body relax. This massage is applied in a specific way to various areas of the body. The main shiatsu massage areas and what they represent are as follows:
- Hands and palms: Help reduce emotional tension and stress; support heart and respiratory balance.
- Abdominal area (hara point): Considered the body’s energy center; helps regulate digestion.
- Legs and soles of the feet: Improve blood circulation and are effective in reducing physical fatigue.
- Shoulders and back line: Relieve muscle stiffness, improve posture, and relax the muscles.
- Head and neck: Help alleviate mental fatigue, stress, and headaches.
Pressure applied to shiatsu massage areas is performed by professional shiatsu therapists. So, how is this massage applied, and where can it be experienced?
How Is Shiatsu Massage Performed?
Shiatsu massage is performed using the fingers and may also involve a technique known as finger pads. However, the most well-known methods include applying pressure to the muscles with the fingers, using quick finger taps, and kneading the body with the thumbs. A typical shiatsu session usually lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. The preparation and application stages of a shiatsu massage generally include the following steps:
- Ideally, a mat or futon mattress is prepared for the shiatsu session.
- To help the person relax and create a calming atmosphere, the room temperature is set to at least 20°C (68°F).
- The person is positioned lying on their back and asked to relax comfortably.
- The body is warmed up with gentle rubbing and circular movements to help the muscles loosen.
- The therapist identifies the meridian lines based on the person’s energy balance and needs; at the core of shiatsu is applying pressure to the correct points along these energy pathways.
- Steady and rhythmic pressure is applied to specific points using the thumbs, palms, and occasionally the elbows.
- As the massage progresses, the body is gently stretched.
- For massage of the back, lower back, and shoulder areas, the person is turned into a face-down position.
- Especially through stretching movements applied to the back, legs, and shoulders, blocked energy is released.
- Toward the end of the massage, the person is allowed to rest for a few minutes. This period helps the body fully relax and allows the energy flow to settle into balance.
Since shiatsu consists of several stages, proper breathing control is essential. Deep and slow breathing helps relax the muscles and allows energy to flow more evenly. In addition, the level of pressure applied during the massage should be adjusted according to the individual. Excessive pressure may cause muscle pain.
The correct level of pressure creates a mild sense of compression without causing discomfort. You can easily find professional shiatsu massage practices that follow these important techniques at shiatsu massage services in Ankara. For other beneficial massage options you may be curious about, you can also explore the massage services offered by Çam Hotel, which features a thermal hotel concept.
Benefits of Shiatsu Massage
Originating in Asia, shiatsu offers benefits not only through stress and pain reduction but also by helping regulate the body’s energy flow. Similar to acupuncture, this massage technique stimulates the body’s meridian channels, helping to eliminate stagnant and imbalanced energy. You can also explore the other benefits of shiatsu massage below:
Reduces Muscle Tension
Stress and muscle strain caused by daily hustle and bustle can make the body feel tense. To counter this, a full-body shiatsu massage helps promote overall relaxation and release built-up tension.
Calms the Nervous System
Shiatsu has a soothing effect on the nervous system as well. The rhythmic pressure applied during the massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. As stress hormone levels drop, a gentle sense of relaxation spreads throughout the body. As the body relaxes, you may also notice a reduction in mental fatigue and anxiety.
Improves Flexibility and Mobility
Shiatsu massage helps reduce joint and muscle pain, allowing the body to gain greater flexibility. As a result, muscle fibers lengthen and joints move more freely. It is especially beneficial for people who work long hours sitting down or those who engage in intense physical activity, as it supports increased range of motion.
Reduces the Impact of Negative Emotional States
As is well known, massage benefits the mind as much as the body. If you experience anxiety, stress, fatigue, or sleep problems due to psychological factors, you can experience the calming effects of shiatsu massage. This massage supports the release of “feel-good” hormones such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, helping to counteract negative emotional states caused by stress and anxiety.
Helps Prevent Muscle Pain
One effective way to minimize muscle pain is to choose massages that relax the muscles. A shiatsu session involves pressure that helps loosen tense and sore muscles. Although this pressure may feel firm at first, stimulating the correct points provides an immediate sense of relief.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shiatsu Massage
Is Shiatsu Massage Firm?
Shiatsu massage is generally firmer than many other massage techniques. By applying strong pressure to specific points on the body, it is an effective method for addressing issues related to stress, anxiety, pain, and low mood.
Where Is Shiatsu Massage Applied?
Shiatsu is a full-body massage technique. During the session, specific pressure is applied to the head, shoulders, hands, abdominal area, legs, and the soles of the feet.
What Does Shiatsu Massage Help With?
Shiatsu provides a relaxing and restorative effect for issues such as muscle fatigue, headaches, general tiredness, stress, digestive problems, joint pain, and insomnia. Performed using the fingers, shiatsu is based on applying pressure to help release toxins accumulated in the muscles. This pressure also supports the realignment of muscles, helping them return to a healthier state.
